Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), 24-Hour Urine, Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in urine collected for 24 hours. DHEA is an androgen produced mainly by the adrenal glands.
["The result can help assess adrenal androgen production when interpreted with symptoms, medical history, and other hormone tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57783-3
- Short code
- DHEA pre hi Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- DHEA pre hi Dex 24h Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82626
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test measures DHEA, an adrenal androgen that contributes to the body's androgen levels. Urine testing can provide information about hormone production over the collection period.
How Is the Urine Collected?
Urine is collected for a full 24 hours, usually beginning after the first morning void is discarded. The container should be kept closed, refrigerated if instructed, and returned according to the laboratory's directions.
Why Is a 24-Hour Collection Used?
A 24-hour collection accounts for changes in urine output throughout the day. However, an incomplete collection, spilled urine, or an unusually short or long collection period can affect the result.
Factors That May Influence the Result
Adrenal disorders, ovarian dysfunction, pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can affect DHEA levels. Medications, supplements, stress, and the timing of the collection may also influence the result.
Reference range
NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
DHEA measurements may be useful when evaluating unwanted androgen-related symptoms such as excess facial hair, acne, or menstrual irregularity, or when assessing adrenal function. The result should not be interpreted alone because DHEA varies with age, sex, hormone status, and collection completeness.
Short name
24-Hour Urine DHEA
Frequently asked questions
What does a high DHEA result mean?
What does a low DHEA result mean?
Can I take medications or supplements before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy